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​Senator James E. Doyle, II (D-Dist. 8, Pawtucket) resigned the office of Senator in the General Assembly effective on Tuesday, January 9.

In a statement, Doyle said, “It is for personal reasons – caused by my struggle with alcohol – that I am resigning. Many of my close friends and colleagues knew that I took some time off last year. My intent was to come back to the Senate, but now is the time to focus on my recovery and on being healthy, and dedicating myself to my family.”

Doyle continued, “I thank God for His grace and mercy, and for my family, friends, and neighbors. At this time, please allow for privacy as I move forward with the assistance of my family.”

“All of us in the Senate are thinking of Jamie and his family during this difficult time. We are grateful for his service to our state, and proud of him for taking the necessary steps to face his addiction. We wish him all the best in his recovery and in all of his future endeavors.”

Doyle was first elected to the chamber in 2004. At the time of his resignation, he served as Deputy Majority Leader. Doyle ran unopposed in the Rhode Island State Senate District 8 general election after defeatingMatt Fecteau and Mark Theroux in the Democratic primary.